Arrived at the trailhead at around 10am. More cars in the parking lot than I was anticipating for a midweek hike but still plenty of room for all. Last time I did this hike I parked by the Garfield Ledges trailhead which made the hike a bit longer. This time I drove all the way to the trailhead and was glad I did - there are plenty of large potholes but if you drive strategically you can straddle or avoid most of them and shorten the "road" part of the hike (which is already long enough!). The bathroom at the trailhead was reasonably clean and stocked with TP.
The trail has plenty of water crossings - definitely passable without poles but they sure make it a lot easier. I would not classify this as a wildflower hike but I did manage to spot some bunch berry, mountain bluebells, and fairy bells in addition to the plentiful bleeding heart and star-flowered lily-of-the-valley.
The turn off to Otter Falls is now very obvious and the new trail is extremely easy to follow. I really love how the trail switchbacks to the left before you crest the hill so you get peek-a-boo view of the falls through the trees as you approach them! The new stairs down to Lipsy Lake are also a very cool addition.
Last time I did this hike it was mid-August so I was definitely pleasantly surprised by how much more active Otter Falls is in the spring time. I also recommend walking the extra half mile (each way) to check out Big Creek Falls if you're up for the extra distance.
10.6 miles, 4 hours 15 minutes, 950 feet elevation gain
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